The Burning Question: Is Sacramento State Football a D1 or D2 Powerhouse (Spoiler Alert: It's Not Exactly the NFL)
Ah, Sacramento State football. Home of the Hornets, a team with a sting that packs a punch...well, at least in the FCS (we'll get to that in a minute). Die-hard fan or curious newcomer, you might be wondering: just how big are these Hornets? Do they battle it out with the Alabama Crimson Tide or are they more like a…Sacramento Kings situation (sorry Kings fans, we all have our down years).
The Big Reveal: FCS Champs in the Making
Brace yourselves…Sacramento State football actually competes in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). Yes, that's a mouthful, but here's the gist: FCS is a tier below the FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision), which features the college football giants you see on Saturday afternoons.
Think of it this way: FCS is like AAA baseball, full of talented athletes on the rise, while FBS is the MLB, with all the established stars. That doesn't mean FCS isn't exciting, though! These teams are hungry, the competition is fierce, and there have been some epic FCS upsets over the years (think David vs. Goliath, but with shoulder pads and a much less dramatic slingshot).
Sacramento State: A Hornet's Nest of History
The Sacramento State Hornets have been buzzing around the gridiron since 1954. They've got a rich history in the FCS ranks, with numerous conference championships and playoff appearances. Heck, they even hold the record for most wins in a season by an FCS team (go Hornets!).
So, while they might not be battling for a national championship against the likes of Clemson or Ohio State just yet, Sacramento State football is a force to be reckoned with in the FCS. They're a team on the rise, and their games are guaranteed to be a nail-biter (well, most of the time).
How to Get Your Hornet Fix
Want to see these champions in action? Here's the scoop:
- Head to Hornet Stadium: Catch a home game and cheer on the Hornets in person. The atmosphere is electric, and you might even snag a hot dog that isn't lukewarm.
- Tune in: Most FCS games are streamed online or broadcast on regional networks. Do a little research and get your Hornet fix from the comfort of your couch (or that uncomfortable folding chair you use for tailgating).
- Support the Team: Rep your Hornet pride with some awesome gear! T-shirts, hats, jerseys – they've got it all. Just don't wear it to a rival's stadium; things might get a little chirpy.
Bonus: Hornet Football FAQs
How to spell "Sacramento State" without messing it up? It's a tricky one, but we believe in you! Just remember "Sacramento" has "mento" in it, like "mento" fresh.
How to score a touchdown like a Hornet?
That one requires years of practice, but mastering the "Hornet Sting" dance move is a good start.
How to convince your significant other that watching FCS football is romantic?
This one's a challenge, but hey, the thrill of victory is pretty darn romantic, right?
How to avoid getting stung by a real hornet while tailgating?
Stay away from open cans and sugary drinks, and maybe wear some closed-toe shoes (just in case).
How to know if you've become a true Sacramento State football fan?
Easy! You can recite the fight song in your sleep and know all the best places to find post-game victory (or defeat) snacks.